Eucalyptus gunnii Silverana

The Eucalyptus gunnii Silverana is a variety of cider gum that is interesting for its cold resistance (it can withstand short frosts down to -10°C (14 °F)) but also for its moderate growth and rather narrow habit, which allows it to fit into medium-sized gardens. If pruned short and regularly, this eucalyptus will form a decorative, silvery-blue bush throughout the year. It will enhance the garden, whether planted as a standalone specimen, in a grove, or as a hedge, and will bring a touch of exoticism and elegance to the terrace when planted in a large container. Its foliage, pleasantly aromatic and very bright, can be used in bouquets. Easy to maintain, it adapts to all well-drained and not too chalky soils. However, it requires full sun to thrive.

The Silverana eucalyptus is a small tree belonging to the myrtle family. It descends from the Eucalyptus gunni, a giant tree native to the mountainous regions of Tasmania. With rapid growth, this very densely vegetated selection has a naturally conical habit and numerous branches from the base of the trunk. At maturity, this small tree will reach approximately 10m (32 ft 10 in) in height and 4m (13 ft 1 in) in width if not pruned. When pruned every year in spring, it will be wider, extremely dense but shorter (less than 5m (16 ft 5 in) in height and around 4m (13 ft 1 in) in spread). Like its ancestor, 'Silverana' has evergreen foliage in winter that is pleasantly aromatic when crushed. Its foliage is bluish silver, carried by green branches when young. Its bark regularly peels off, revealing a fresh yellow to pinkish bark. The juvenile foliage consists of rounded or heart-shaped leaves, measuring approximately 4-5cm (1.6-2 in) in length, while the adult leaves are elongated and lance-shaped. The flowering, quite insignificant, takes place in August-September. It consists of fragrant flowers in the form of tiny white-pink pompoms, which are visited by insects.

The Eucalyptus gunnii Silverana works wonders in scenes dominated by white or silver. It brings an exotic touch to the garden when planted as a hedge with other shrubs, in groups, or as a standalone specimen. For example, you can associate it with purple foliage (Sambucus Black Lace, Cotinus Royal Purple) or golden foliage (Catalpa bignonioides Aurea, Golden Honeylocust). On the balcony or terrace, its lightness and the brightness of its foliage will bring a beautiful touch of light. Easy to maintain, very hardy, and water-efficient, it is an elegant plant at all stages of its growth, both as a young plant and as an adult. Its frost resistance allows it to be cultivated in many regions.